John W. Yaeger, E.D., was appointed National Defense University Vice President for Accreditation and Strategic Planning in September 2020. Prior to that he was Provost since October 2009. Dr. Yaeger is also a Commissioner on the Maryland Higher Education Commission. The Commission is an independent agency responsible for the planning, supervision and coordination of the state's post-secondary education system.
A 1974 graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy, Dr. Yaeger serves today as Class President.
From June 1974 through June 1993 Dr. Yaeger had assignments with naval aviation squadrons and ships, serving as an instructor pilot in each operational assignment. Following command, he was assigned to the U.S. Naval Academy from July 1993 until July 1996 as the Commandant's Operations Officer. He instructed courses in leadership and character development.
In 1996, Captain Yaeger reported to National Defense University, and has been a student; Professor; Associate Dean of Faculty; Dean of Faculty; the Associate Provost for Planning and Assessment, Provost prior to his appointment as Vice President for Accreditation and Strategic Planning.
He earned a Master’s Degree from the Naval Postgraduate School; a Master’s of Science in National Resource Strategy from the Industrial College of the Armed Forces (ICAF), National Defense University; and the degree of Doctor of Education from The George Washington University, Washington, D.C.